Practical problems

The most diffcult conditions are found under conifers, as these areas are dry and sheltered in Summer & Winter, often with an accumulation of dead needles creating very acidic conditions.

With plenty of added organic material, it may be possible to grow spring-flowering bulbs around the base of the tree.

Under trees where the branches are low & spreading out, few plants will thrive except along the edge of the branches. Plants may need to be tried on a trial & error basis, with the emphasis on low-growing evergreen shrubs. Common Ivy is worth trying in even the gloomiest conditions.

Mulching improves water retention, and combined with autumn father than spring planting, allow some plants to establish more effectively over winter.

Trees for shady sites

Acer platanoides

Acer pseudoplatanus

Betula

Gleditsia triacanthos

Shrubs for shady sites

Amerlanchier

Aucuba

Berberis

Buxus sempervirens

Cotoneaster

Euonymus

Fatsia

Forsythia

Fuchsia ( Hardy )

Hypericum

Ilex ( Holly )

Kerria japonica

Osmanthus burkwoodii

Pachysandra terminalis

Pittosporum tenuifolium

Prunus laurocerasus

Rhus

Sambucus

Skimmia

Viburnum davidii

Vinca

Climbers for north & east sites

Camellia

Chaenomeles ( Flowering Quince )

Clematis

Hedera

Hydrangea petiolaris

Jasminum nudiflorum

Parthenocissus

Pyracantha

Vitis ( Ornamental Vines )

Perennials for shady sites

Ajuga

Alchemilla

Anemone japonica

Bergenia

Brunnera macrophylla

Cortaderia ( Pampas Grass )

Dicentra

Digitalis

Doronicum

Epimedium

Euphorbia

Geranium ( Herbaceous varieties )

Hellebore

Hosta

Iris foetidissima

Lamium

Liriope muscari

Physalis franchetii

Pulmonaria

Salvia superba

Ferns for drier, shady sites

Asplenium scolopendrium

Dryopteris affnis

Dryopteris Crista the King

Polystichum setiferum

Polystichum plumoso-densum

Polypodium vulgare

If you would like any help or advice, please do ask any of our friendly staff.